Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (cmc)

Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (scmc or cmc) or cellulose gum is an anionic water soluble polymer; it is derived from cellulose, which is made water soluble by a chemical reaction.

CAS NUMBER: 9004-32-4.
CHEMICAL FORMULA: [C6H7O2(OH)x(OCH2COONa)y]n
Where n = degree of polymerization, x = 1.50 to 2.80, y = 0.2 to 1.50, x + y = 3.0
y = degree of substitution
CMC is a white to creamish coloured powder consisting of very fine particles, fine granules. It is odor less and tasteless. It is a hygroscopic powder readily dissolves in water to form colloidal solution. It is insoluble in many organic solvents such as methanol, ethanol, propanol and acetone and so on.
FUNCTIONS & PROPERTIES
Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC) has the following functions and properties:
1) it acts as a thickener, binder, stabilizer, suspending agent and flow controlling agent.
2) It forms fine films that are resistant to oils, greases, and organic solvents.
3) It dissolves rapidly in cold water.
4) Acts as a protective colloid reducing water losses.
5) It is suitable for use in food systems.
6) It is physiologically inert.
7) It is an anionic polyelectrolyte.
These properties and functions make it suitable for use in a broad range of applications in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, paper, and other industries. To serve these diverse industries, CMC are available in three grades: HIGHLY PURIFIED, PURIFIED & TECHNICAL and in many types based on carboxymethyl substitution, viscosity, purity, particle size, and other parameters.